Variable depth automated dynamic water profiler

ABSTRACT

A winch-based system is used to raise and lower a hydrological probe into a water column to automatically dynamically obtain measurement data of a water column at incremental depths over selected time intervals. The winch-based system can be powered by a relatively low-power power source to cause the electric motor to controllably operate to wind and unwind the cable at a desired rate in a manner which can pause the upward and downward movement of the probe at incremental measurement depths. The disclosure also describes related systems. Additionally, a method for enhancing the life of a hydroglogical probe by storing the probe at an immersed subsurface depth is also described.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Serial No. 60/309,001, filed Jul. 31, 2001, the contents ofwhich are hereby incorporated by reference as if recited in full herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates to systems and methods formonitoring water quality at various depths.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Conventionally, manual collection of water samples have been usedto assess or measure one or more parameters of interest associated withwater quality. Unfortunately, manual collections can be time-consumingand laborious and the sample may be inconsistently obtained atrelatively long intervals between collections and/or at different depthsin the water column, potentially reducing the value of the information.

[0004] In the past, many users have chosen to suspend a probe or sensorfrom the side of a piling, platform, or buoy to allow readings to beobtained at desired points in time. Commercially available sensors canmonitor several parameters with a single integrated probe. Theseparameters include pH, temperature, turbidity, conductivity, dissolvedoxygen, and chlorophyll. Examples of these type of multi-sensor probesinclude those available from HydroLab Corporation located in Austin,Tex., and other sources such as YSI, Sea-Bird, Wet Labs, Li-Cor, and thelike.

[0005] One commercial automated water monitoring system, known as theR.U.S.S. Dynamic Profiler™, available from Apprise Technologies, Inc.,uses a variable buoyancy technique to raise and lower a multi-sensorprobe at selected time intervals and collect water quality data in awater column, allegedly to a depth of about 100 m. The buoyancy-basedsystem can collect the water quality data daily at selected times orupon demand. The collected data can then be forwarded to a remote orcentral location using various known communication techniques such ascellular, satellite or VHF technology. See Url www.apprisetech.com foradditional description of profilers such as that noted above. See alsoU.S. Pat. Nos. 5,816,874 and 5,606,138 for additional examples ofadjustable buoyancy water sampling systems and/or communicationtransfers between the testing site and a central station; the contentsof these patents are hereby incorporated by reference as if recited infull herein.

[0006] However, despite the above, conventional automated water qualityprofiling systems can be relatively expensive, may require undue amountsof power, or may need an undesirable amount of maintenance, and furthermay not be able to measure the condition of the water at surface level(particularly when monitoring bodies of water having variable waterlevels). Further, the operation, of known water monitoring systems mayunduly shorten the useful life of the probe or sensor used. Thereremains a need to provide improved low cost alternatives for automateddynamic monitoring of water quality.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The present invention provides a relatively low cost winch-basedalternative to conventional systems. The present invention can be addedto many many existing water monitoring systems that employ hydrologicalprobes with little modification. In certain embodiments, the system canoperate such that it is surface level intelligent (i.e., it can adjusteach profile reading so as to indicate fluctuation in water level(change in depth) and/or obtain a reading at the actual surface level).

[0008] In certain embodiments, the present invention is directed to amethod for dynamically monitoring at least one parameter of interest ina liquid environment using a hydrological probe which is attached to acable mounted on a spool of a winching system. The winching system cancontrollably unwind a quantity of cable to lower a hydrological probeinto a liquid environment at a series of increasing incrementaldistances away from the surface of the liquid. First data measurementscan be obtained for at least one selected parameter of interest in theliquid environment at the selected distances. Second data measurementscan be obtained for the at least one selected parameter of interest inthe liquid environment at the selected distances after the firstmeasurements. The liquid environment can be monitored to generate atime-dependent dynamic liquid profile of the at least one parameter ofinterest based on the first and second data measurements.

[0009] In other embodiments, instead of lowering the probe, the samplingcan be carried out by raising the hydrological probe in a liquidenvironment (winding the cable upward) at a series of increasingincremental distances above the bottom of the liquid by winching thecable to controllably wind a quantity of the cable attached thereto andthen serially obtaining over a desired interval of time the first andsecond data measurements for the at least one selected parameter ofinterest in the liquid environment at the selected distances or depths.

[0010] In certain embodiments, whether by raising or lowering the probe,the winching can be powered by a low voltage power source and the secondobtaining step can be initiated at between about 1-12 hours from thefirst obtaining step. The liquid environment may be a body of water, andthe first and second obtaining steps can be automatically carried out soas to generate water profile data measurements at about 3 hour intervalsfor a desired monitoring period (such as 1 week, 1 month, or longer).The sampling interval is adjustable (user programmable) and measurementscan be taken at any suitable time, subject to the travel time of thewater quality probe (sonde) and number of sampling positions during thedata collection.

[0011] In certain embodiments, the probe can be lowered or raised suchthat the hydrological probe ascends or descends for about 30 seconds,and then pauses to dwell at a second depth to take a measurement,continues for about another 30 seconds to a third depth, pauses to takea measurement at the third depth, continues for about another 30 secondsto a fourth depth, and then pauses to take a measurement at the fourthdepth.

[0012] In other embodiments, the data measurements include taking areading at the surface of the liquid even in variable height liquidenvironments.

[0013] Other embodiments of the present invention are directed to amethod for enhancing the life of a hydrological probe. The methodincludes: positioning a hydrological probe in a body of water; measuringat least one parameter of interest of the water at a plurality of depthsof the body of water over time with the hydrological probe; and storingthe probe such that it is held immersed in the body of water at asubsurface depth after the measuring step (such as during inactivemeasurement periods). In certain embodiments, the subsurface depth maybe at a depth adjacent the bottom of the body of water.

[0014] Still other embodiments of the present invention include a kitfor an automated water profiler system. The kit can include a winchingsystem having a drum with a length of multi conductor cable configuredto wind thereon. The mutli-conductor cable is adapted to engage with ahydrological multi-sensor probe. The kit can also include a low voltagepower source adapted to be in electrical communication with the winchingsystem during use and an electric motor operably associated with thepower source and the winching system. The kit can also include acontroller adapted to be in communication with the power source, theelectric motor, and the winching system during operation. The kitincludes means for selectively powering the motor at desired intervalsto activate the winching system so as to obtain a series of datameasurements from the probe at a plurality of depths in a water columnduring use. The means can include, but is not limited toelectromechanical components and/or a computer program.

[0015] In certain embodiments, the kit can include a guide tubeconfigured to be disposed in a body of water and to receive the probetherein to direct the travel direction of the probe. The kit may alsoinclude means for causing the probe to be stored in the bottom of thewater column during periods of inactivity (such as an electro-mechanicalsubsystem and/or a computer program). Of course other components may beadded or altered in the modification kit.

[0016] Other embodiments are directed to automated water profilersystems and include: a controller; a winching system having a drum witha length of multi conductor cable, the mutli-conductor cable adapted toengage with a hydrological mutli-sensor probe; a power source configuredto be in electrical communication with the winching system; an electricmotor configured to be operably associated with the power source and thewinching system; and means for selectively powering the motor at desiredintervals to activate the winching system so as to automatically obtaina series of data measurements from the probe at a plurality of depths ina water column. The system can be configured to controllably wind andunwind the cable at desired time intervals and to cause the probe to beheld submerged during periods of inactivity. In addition, the system caninclude correcting operational features to: (a) self-correct or resetthe probe depth or location when sensors or switches indicate it is notat a proper level; and (b) activate remote alarms when certainpredetermined conditions are identified.

[0017] Other embodiments are directed to automated water profilersystems for monitoring a body of liquid. The systems include: (a) awinching system having a drum wound with a length of cable, the cableadapted to engage with a hydrological multi-sensor probe; (b) a powersource configured to be in electrical communication with said winchingsystem; (c) an electric motor configured to be operably associated withthe power source and the winching system; (d) a controller incommunication with a relay circuit for selectively controllably poweringthe motor at desired intervals to activate the winching system so as toautomatically obtain a series of data measurements from the probe at aplurality of depths in a liquid column (the system is configured tocontrollably wind and unwind the cable at desired time intervals toobtain time-dependent data of at least one selected liquid parameter);and (e) a wireless communication means operably associated with thecontroller for receiving commands from a remote monitoring site anddynamically transmitting data measurements thereto in substantiallyreal-time.

[0018] In yet other embodiments, the present invention is directed to anetwork of automated water profiler system for monitoring a body ofwater, comprising a plurality of distributed automated water profilers,each including those features described above and at least one remotedata acquisition site configured to generate and transmit commands to,and receive data from, each of the automated water profilers. The remotedata acquisition site comprises a controller that evaluates the datafrom each of the distributed automated water profilers and generatestrend analysis data of selected hydrological parameters over time.

[0019] Objects of the present invention will be appreciated by those ofordinary skill in the art from a reading of the figures and the detaileddescription of embodiments of the invention that follow, suchdescription being merely illustrative of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in andconstitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of theinvention and, together with the description, serve to explainprinciples of the invention.

[0021]FIG. 1A is a schematic illustration of an automated water profilersystem according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0022]FIG. 1B is a schematic illustration of another automated waterprofiler system according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0023]FIG. 2A is a photograph of an automated water profiler systemaccording to embodiments of the present invention positioned adjacentexemplary screen displays or print outs of reports of selected monitoredparameters over time according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0024]FIG. 2B is a schematic illustration of a water profiler dataacquisition, evaluation, and presentation system providing screendisplays of monitored parameters according to embodiments of the presentinvention.

[0025]FIG. 2C is a schematic illustration of an automated dataprocessing system that acquires, evaluates and presents data andgenerates alerts according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0026]FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration of a hydrological probe andwinch according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0027]FIG. 4 is a front view of a winching system according toembodiments of the present invention.

[0028]FIG. 5 is a digital photograph of a winching system according toembodiments of the present invention.

[0029]FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a pole mounted profiler systemaccording to embodiments of the present invention.

[0030]FIG. 7 is a front view of an automated profiler system with thedoor to a sealable housing holding the electronics thereof, shown in anopen position.

[0031]FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration of an automated profiler systemaccording to embodiments of the present invention.

[0032]FIG. 9 is a schematic illustration of an exemplary relay circuitsuitable for the relay system shown in FIG. 8.

[0033]FIG. 10 is a flow chart of an example of logic control operationsthat may be performed according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0034]FIG. 11 is a flow chart of operations of an automated profilersystem according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0035] FIGS. 12A-12C are graphs of dynamic water profile data accordingto embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 12A illustrates the windconditions (direction and speed) over a selected time period. FIG. 12Billustrates salinity (PSU) at a first site located at the north shore ofKennel Beach over a corresponding time period (shown in Julian Day). Theside legend defines the levels of salinity corresponding to the grayscale shown. FIG. 12C illustrates similar data for a second site locatedat the south shore of Carolina Pines. The “0” level shown is for thebottom of the water column shown as the top of the graph.

[0036] FIGS. 13A-13C are graphs corresponding to the graphs of FIGS.12A-12C. The wind conditions shown in FIG. 13A are the same as for thatin FIG. 12A. In these figures, the sensor detects or measures for thepresence of detected DO (dissolved oxygen) in the water column,according to embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 13B illustratesthe gradient measured at the north shore of Kennel Beach and FIG. 13Cillustrates measurements taken at the south shore at Carolina Pines.

[0037] FIGS. 14A-14C are graphs similar to those of FIGS. 12A-12C butfor a different time period during which there was a northerly wind orsoutherly wind (depending on the location of the automated system).FIGS. 14B and 14C are graphs of salinity measured in the water column atthe north shore of Kennel Beach and the south shore of Carolina Pines,respectively.

[0038] FIGS. 15A-15C correspond to FIGS. 14A-14C but illustrate thedetected DO level in the water column. The wind conditions shown in FIG.15A are the same as those shown in FIG. 14A. FIG. 15B illustrates themeasurement results taken at the north shore of Kennel Beach and FIG.15C illustrates the measurement results taken at the south shore ofCarolina Pines.

[0039]FIG. 16 is a map of locations for a multi-site automated waterprofiler system according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0040]FIG. 17 is a schematic illustration of the operation of a dynamicmonitoring system that can be visually dynamically presented on acomputer network according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0041]FIGS. 18A and 18B are a screen printouts of two sets of datashowing a year trend analysis of depth of DO (FIG. 18A) and Salinity(FIG. 18B). Although shown in gray scale, color gradient graphics mayalso be used.

[0042]FIG. 19 is a spatial plot of DO that may be illustrated (if shownin color, red can be used to indicate regions having less than about 2.5mg/L) that may be used as a predictor of fish kill in the monitoredwater system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0043] The present invention now will be described more fullyhereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in whichembodiments of the invention are shown. This invention may, however, beembodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limitedto the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments areprovided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and willfully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. In the figures, certainregions, components, features or layers may be exaggerated for clarity.Broken lines in the figures indicate that the feature or step soindicated is optional unless noted otherwise.

[0044] Turning to FIG. 1A, one embodiment of an automated dynamic waterquality monitoring system 10 according to the present invention isshown. In the embodiment shown, the water quality monitoring system 10includes a platform 11 mounted to a piling 12 which is anchored ordriven into material at the bottom of a body of water and used toposition the water quality monitoring system 10 at a desired marinelocation. For ease of description, the water quality system 10 will beshown as being mounted to a stationary platform. However, the system 10need not be mounted to a stationary platform, and can, alternatively, bemounted to a floating platform, boat, or a buoy as desired. In addition,the system can be mounted to existing structures located in the body ofwater or liquid for which automated multi-depth evaluation is desired,such as oil platforms, telecommunication towers and the like. The systemmay be particularly suitable for monitoring bodies of water such asfresh water including lakes, and rivers, or salt or brackish water,including oceans, intercoastal waterways, estuaries, canals, marsh land,swamps, and deltas. In certain embodiments, a plurality of automatedsystems 10 may be dispersed in locations in a related flowing body ofwater such as along the path of a river and at the junction of riversinto ocean waters (ocean inlets). The system 10 may also be used inother liquid environments including wastewater plants, sewer systems,tanks, wells or drinking water systems.

[0045] In certain embodiments, the water monitoring system 10 isconfigured to dynamically monitor both hydrological and meteorologicalconditions. This can allow the weather conditions at the monitoring siteto be correlated to the water conditions at the monitoring site. Asshown in FIGS. 1A and/or 1B to monitor meteorological and otherparameters such as environmental (liquid and/or air) nutrientconditions, the system 10 can include a rainfall sensor 15, a relativehumidity sensor 17, a sunlight intensity sensor 18, a housing enclosurefor experimental sensors or equipment 16, and wind/speed directionsensors 20. In addition, the system 10 can include a computer 21 andwireless communication means 22 (outgoing and incoming) to allow themonitoring system 10 to be controlled from a remote site and/or toupload or transfer the collected or measured water profile data and/ormeteorological data at desired intervals (whether at default or selectedtimes and/or upon demand). The wireless communication means can be radiowave transmission, cellular, digital, and/or satellite signal relaytransmission, or a combination of same. The system 10 can, alternativelybe configured to operate and/or communicate via hardwired or dedicatedlines as well (including, for example, but not limited to, fiber optic,cable, ISDN, or telephone lines). Combinations of the above are alsopossible.

[0046] As is also shown in FIG. 1A, the system 10 also includes a powersource 30, a hydrological probe winching system or winch 32, cable 33,and a hydrological probe 35. The system 10 is configured to operate thewinch 32 to wind and unwind the cable 33 to thereby lower and raise thehydrological probe 35. These components will be discussed further below.

[0047] In certain embodiments, the system 10 can also include a guidepipe 40 that is held at a desired orientation to define the desiredtravel path. Typically, the guide 40 is mounted securely to the bottomof the body of water undergoing analysis in a substantially verticalorientation to define a vertical travel path for the probe 35. In otherembodiments, the guide 40 can be positioned above the bottom of the bodyof water and held in position by an anchoring unit and/or cabling whichis securely implanted or attached to the bottom. Similarly, the guide 40may extend to a location adjacent the bottom of the platform 11 or abovethe platform 11, or at other positions below the platform 11 as desired.In certain embodiments, the guide 40 extends a sufficient distance abovethe water to retain the probe 35 therein as the probe 35 surfaces totake a surface reading. The guide 40 can be located such that it is inpredetermined spaced horizontal and/or vertical alignment with thewinching system 32. The guide 35 can be sized and configured to surroundand to hold the hydrological probe 35 so that it is captured laterallyto guide the hydrological probe 35 in a desired sensing path (typicallya substantially vertical column). The bottom and/or top of the guide 40b, 40 t may be open or may be closed. If it includes a closed top 40 t,it may be desirable to include a releasable portion or member (typicallyabove the surface) from which to access or interchange the probe 35during service or repair or to position during set-up. If the top 40 tis closed, a suitable cable aperture can be formed therein to allow thecable 33 to travel therethrough. The bottom portion 40 b (or otheraxially spaced selected portions) can be configured with a relay orrelays that cooperate with the probe 35 to contact and transmit a signalto the system 10 to indicate that the probe 35 has reached the desireddepth or position. This can be the storage or end position or variousdepths along the water column to help confirm that the depth meter iscalibrated to the sampling depth. The guide lower end portion 40 b canbe configured to securely hold the probe 35 during periods of inactivityto inhibit contact damage with the tube (or other peripheral items). Theguide lower end portion 40 b may also be configured with a probe sensorlife-prolonging surface or cavity which can receive the lower edge ofthe probe 35 and introduce an antifouling or cleansing material atdesired intervals via a line in fluid communication with the lowerportion of the guide (or cavity) extending from the platform 11 to theguide and configured to direct the material into the cavity (not shown).The guide 40 can be a PVC (polyvinylchloride) pipe which may be coatedwith a marine coating material to inhibit marine growth thereon. Asuitable coating is known as Interlux, Fiberglass Bottomkote®) ACT, partno. 7740, from Ablative Copolymer Technology, Union, N.J.

[0048] As shown in FIGS. 1B and 2A, the guide tube 40 can include aplurality of apertures 40 a formed into the tube 40. The apertures 40 acan be configured in size and arranged in location about the length ofthe guide tube 40 to allow water representative of the water at theincremental measurement depths to enter therein. As shown, the guidetube 40 is cylindrical and the apertures are circumferentially spacedabout the perimeter of the guide tube 40 at a plurality of axiallyspaced positions along the length of the guide tube. In the embodimentshown, the apertures 40 a are configured as axially elongated slots.Other configurations can also be employed.

[0049] In operation, the hydrological probe 35 is positioned in theguide tube 40 so that the hydrological probe 35 travels up and down alength of the guide tube 40 during the lowering and raising of the cableas the winch 32 unwinds or winds the cable 33, respectively. In certainembodiments, the apertures 40 a are arranged to extend a distance abovethe water line but a major distance below the platform 11 intermediatethe platform and water level. The apertures 40 a can be formed into theguide tube 40 at each desired measurement depth. The winch 32 canselectively or controllably raise and lower the probe 35 so that theprobe dwells or pauses a period at each measurement depth beforecontinuing to the next measurement depth.

[0050] The system 10 can also include a solar panel 19 (FIGS. 1A, 1B) toprovide supplemental power or re-charging energy for one or more of thedevices or sensors located on the platform 11. In addition, the platform11 may also include a lightening protection member 23. In certainembodiments, the system 10 can include a water level sensor 24 such as,but not limited to, a pressure water level sensor, to dynamically definethe water level at the surface of the water. The water level sensor 24can be any desired level sensor type suitable for detecting fluctuatingwater levels whether as a stationary sensor attached to the piling 12 orplatform 11 or attached to adjacent structures (such as the guide tube).The water level sensor 24 can be, but is not limited to, a conventionalstrip water level sensor, an infrared sensor(s), or a floating sensor.

[0051] The water level sensor 24 can provide dynamic water level datawhich can be monitored by the system 10 so that the system is “surfacelevel intelligent”; it can be used to define where the surface level isto allow the hydrological probe 35 to have a variable surfacemeasurement location so that it can take a measurement at the surface nomatter where that surface may be during the sampling run or monitoringperiod. This can be particularly useful in locations with variable waterlevels due to tidal conditions, the release of water from dams, highwinds, and/or various natural weather conditions (such as heavy rains,hurricanes, tropical depressions, storms, and the like) that mayinfluence the water table. As such, the system 10 can measure parametersat surface of variable height water and can define the surface level toadjust where the system begins/ends its readings and note at what levelto allow the variable water level and readings to be dynamicallycorrelated over time. In addition, a fish finder or other desireddetector as well as other desired sensors can also be included with thesystem (not shown).

[0052] Although shown as a single computer 21, multiple computers orsignal processors such as master/slave processors can be configured tooperate the system 10. The computer 21 can be configured with anautomated water sampler module 21A to control the operation of the winch32 and the hydrological probe 35.

[0053] In operation, the hydrological probe 35 is lowered or raised viaa winch 32 to a plurality of incrementally increasing or decreasingdepths in the water column. In certain embodiments, at each of theplurality of measurement depths in the water column, the probe may pauseand obtain the reading, at which time the probe is lowered to the nextdesired measurement depth. In other embodiments, the samples may bemeasured as the probe continues its descent or ascent.

[0054]FIG. 1B illustrates that the winch system 32 can be a relativelycompact modular configuration that can be mounted under the platform 11or on a side of a piling (without a platform) above the water level. Thesystem 10 can be configured to be a substantially real-time remotemonitoring system that acts alone, or as a data collection point in anintegrated system of a plurality of such stations or systems 10. Thesystem can obtain and relay information to a remote monitoring site thatcan broadcast or relay the data to a computer network, such as a globalcomputer network.

[0055] The winch 32 can be powered by a motor 32M (FIG. 3), which canraise or lower the probe 35 at a desired rate of speed. In certainembodiments, the rate of speed can be from about 0.02 m/s to about 2.0m/s. The winch 32 may also be configured to pause or dwell for about 10seconds to 2 minutes or longer to obtain the desired readings at each ofthe desired measurement depths. This sequence can be repeated until theentire water column has been sampled. In certain embodiments, the winch32 can be powered to move the probe 35 in the desired direction forabout 30 seconds (corresponding to a depth increment of about 0.5 m) andthen paused for about 90 seconds to obtain the reading. For a typicalsite (using about 30-80 feet of cable), the entire water column can besampled in about 20-60 minutes. For example, the system 10 can beoperated to take readings at 10 incremental depths in a water columnhaving a depth of 5-20 m, at every 0.5-1 m depth, the water profilemeasurements can occur over an elapsed 20-40 minute sampling cycle (thetime from the first to the last reading). The sampling cycle can varydepending on the extension/uptake rate, the dwelling period formeasurement at each measurement depth, and the number of differentmeasurement depths sampled. In certain embodiments, the system can windand unwind about 30-80 feet of cable at a rate of about 0.2 m/minute.

[0056] In certain embodiments, the system 10 is configured as a lowtorque system to sample water columns of less than about 80-100 feetusing a continuous sampling interval of about every 1-12 hours. Thesampling intervals (lowering depths, times, pauses, and the like) can beuser defined and programmably set at or prior to installation and/oradjusted during operation. Thus, for example, in operation, the system10, 10′ can lower the hydrological probe at a first user definedinterval, pause to take a measurement at the first lowered depth,continue to lower for about a second user defined interval to a secondlowered depth, pause to take a measurement at the second lowered depth,continue for about third user set interval to a third lowered depth, andthen pause to take a measurement at the third lowered depth. Additionalnumbers of sampling at additional depths can be carried out depending onthe desired number of data collection points desired. The first, second,and third intervals can be adjustable (sampling cycle to sampling cycle,day to day, or at other desired adjustment periods) and can adjust thesampling depths as desired. In addition, the sampling depths for asampling cycle or for each sampling cycle may be at equal depthincrements or different depth increments. The user defined interval canbe adjusted or set in situ at one or more monitoring sites, may beprogrammed or defined during operational set-up prior to fieldinstallation, and/or may be adjusted at the monitoring site by the dataacquisition computer at the shore site. In particular embodiments, theuser defined intervals may be set to be at about every 30 seconds toabout every five to ten minutes in a sampling cycle.

[0057] In particular embodiments, the system 10, 10′ can be configuredto sample depths of about 40 feet. In certain embodiments, a low torquesystem can include a motor that is configured to operate with about 50in-lbs of torque. The low torque motor may be configured to operate atabout 0.30-15.0 rpm. In particular embodiments, the motor can operate ateither about 0.45 rpm or about 5.0 rpm, depending on commerciallyavailable motors that meet the operational parameters (to controlproduction costs). The motors may operate with about {fraction (1/1200)}HP on a 12 VDC motor. In other embodiments, depths of about 80-1,000 ftor more can be sampled. The deeper sampling system may be configuredwith to operate with about 40 in-lbs of torque at about 12.0 rpm,operating with about {fraction (1/90)}HP on a 12 VDC motor.

[0058] In certain embodiments, the sampling can occur about every 2-6hours. For low torque systems, a low voltage power source may be used.For larger torque systems additional power may be needed. In certainembodiments, the low voltage power source has a sufficient life to powerthe system for at least 30 days as will be described further below.“Continuous” means that the automated water profiler can substantiallycontinuously operate at selected intervals over a period of interestsuch as at least about 1 week, and more typically for about at least 1month. In certain embodiments, the automated system can operate withlittle maintenance for about 1 month or longer. The sampling intervalcan be self-adjusted or adjusted remotely during the monitoring period.For example, upon a detection of abnormal conditions (weather or waterparameters), the sampling interval may be automatically increased (basedon predetermined criteria defined in a computer program) to obtainadditional data, while in periods of relatively constant conditions, thesampling period may be extended.

[0059] The system 10 can be configured to obtain measurement readings atdesired incremental distances. In certain embodiments, the readings canbe obtained every 0.1-5 m, typically at about every 0.5-1.5 m, and moretypically at about every 0.5-1 m. The measurement depth intervals mayvary depending on the depth of the body of water under analysis as wellas the parameters and resolution desired. In addition, differentmeasurement intervals along the water column may be employed to provideincreased resolution at depths of particular interest. The automatedwater profiler system 10 can be configured to obtain the readings fromthe bottom to the surface (as the probe 35 is raised and the winch 32winds the cable 33) or from the surface to the bottom (as the probe 35is lowered and the winch 32 unwinds the cable 33).

[0060] As shown in FIG. 6, the power source can be a battery 30 that maybe rechargeable via solar energy transmitted from the solar panel (19,FIGS. 1A and 1B). The battery 30 may be a 12V rechargeable battery thatis mounted to be relatively easily accessible (externally) to allow easeor replacement during use. As also shown in FIG. 6, the system 10′ maybe compactly configured as a modular assembly that can be mounted to theside of a piling. The electronics and operational equipment (such as thecomputer 21, datalogger 121, FIG. 8, communication means such as a cellphone modem 21T, FIG. 8, and electronic relays 13, FIG. 8) can bedisposed in a weather resistant protective housing 21H such as NEMA 4Xbox. FIG. 7 also illustrates one arrangement of the compact modularsystem 10′ (with the door to the housing 21H open). In certainembodiments, the logic-controlled winch 32 can be located below theelectronics housing 21H and battery 30.

[0061] The modular assembly 10′ may be such that the length of thehousing of the electronics, shown as L₂, may be less than about 12inches, with the winching spool having a diameter that is also less thanabout 12 inches, and the total length of the modular assembly L₁,covering less than about 24 inches (excluding the probe 35 and cable 33when unwound). The system 10′ can be relatively lightweight, compact,and mountable to the piling with a plurality of banding strips 10 s ₁,10 s ₂ (shown as two). Other mounting configurations and structures mayalso be used, such as, but not limited to, nails, screws, adhesives,brackets, and the like. In certain embodiments, the modular system 10′(excluding the probe 33) can weigh less than about 50 lbs, and typicallyless than about 25 lbs.

[0062] In certain embodiments, the system 10 is operated to prolong theuseful life of the hydrological probe 35 by storing the probe such thatit is held submerged or immersed at the bottom of the water column or adepth sufficient to inhibit marine fouling during periods of inactivity.Because the oxygen or DO level (or other potential probe-life reducingagents) is present in reduced amounts at the benthic boundary layer (thelayer immediately above the sediment surface) on the order of at leastabout 0.1 mg/liter dissolved oxygen. The service life can besignificantly increased to at least about 9 days compared to 3 days whenheld in well-oxygenated water. That is, conventionally the oxygen sensormay need servicing at about every 3 days-1 week (i.e., such as changingthe membrane), by storing the probe 35 at submerged depth according toembodiments of the present invention, the sensitivity and/or life of theoxygen sensor may be increased. Examples of suitable hydrological probes35 include multi-sensor probes available from HydroLab Corporationlocated in Austin, Tex., and other sources such as YSI, Inc., YellowSprings, Ohio, Sea-Bird, Inc., Bellevue, Wash., Wet Labs, Inc.,Philomath, Oreg., LiCor, Inc., Lincoln, Nebr., and Turner Designs, Inc.,Sunnyvale, Calif., and the like. Other examples of hydrological probesare discussed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,816,874, 5,821,405, and 4,662,210; thecontents of these documents are hereby incorporated by reference as ifrecited in full herein. The multi-sensor integrated hydrological probe35 can be configured with one or more of a depth sensor, a dissolvedoxygen sensor, a turbidity sensor, a salinity sensor, a pH sensor, atemperature sensor, a chlorophyll sensor, a conductivity sensor and thelike.

[0063] The right side of FIG. 2A illustrates examples of visual andgraphic displays of water profile data and associated meteorologicaldata which can be gathered by automated water profiler systems 10, 10′and charted or monitored over time to generate dynamic information ofevolving conditions. The five lower graphs track a five-day period anddepict the variation in water level, specific conductivity, DOpercentage, redox, and pH at Broad Creek. The upper graphs illustratewind speed/direction and barometric pressure and air temperature withrelative humidity and rainfall (hourly) measured at Kennel Beach overthe same five-day period. The graphic depiction of gauges at the top ofFIG. 2A, illustrates the meteorological conditions at Carolina Pines ata particular date and time (Dec. 11, 2000 at 5:00 PM). In FIG. 2A, DO %(mg/L), air temperature (C./F.), wind speed (mph, m/s and knots), winddirection, voltage, water sample depth, bar pressure, and watertemperature are shown. These displays can be generated by a dataacquisition computer that may be located at a central collection site(typically shore-based) and uploaded to be displayed on a globalcomputer network at a desired website URL which is accessible byinterested persons. The data may be transmitted from the differentmonitoring sites to the data acquisition computer using substantiallyreal-time data, allowing the displays to be updated in substantiallyreal time (such as from about 1-30 minutes or less from transmissionfrom the monitored site) and posted to a desired user accessible site orsites.

[0064]FIG. 2B is a screen printout of operations that can be performedfor a data collection system according to certain embodiments of thepresent invention. As shown, a remote data acquisition computer 21R(located remote from the local computer 21L at the profiler 10, 10′) canwirelessly communicate with the local computer 21L to request datatransmission from at least one local system 10, 10′. In response, thelocal computer 21L, at the profiler system 10, 10′ transmits the data tothe remote computer 21R. This data is analyzed and graphics generated toillustrate the monitored dynamic parameters over a desired time periodas shown by the graphs and meter visuals in the lower left corner ofFIG. 2B. This data and graphic information can be transmitted to aglobal computer network 21G that may be accessed (shown as located atURL www.pfiesteria.org). In certain embodiments, email alerts can begenerated and sent to list serve individuals (or those wishing to begiven such notice) when unusual conditions are detected allowing a userto more closely monitor those situations.

[0065]FIG. 2C is a screen print out that illustrates examples of graphicpresentations and/or analysis that may be performed of the dataaccording to embodiments of the present invention. The graphics andanalysis may include, but is not limited to, nutrient and physicalspatial plots, trend analysis, regionally or at desired locations, dailyprofile reports, and wind, rain, and other graphic data associated withenvironmental conditions at the time of the data collection. The graphsmay be presented in gray scale or color.

[0066] Turning now to FIG. 3, one embodiment of a relatively low costwinching system 32S for selectively winding and unwinding the cablethereby raising and lowering the probe 35 is illustrated. As shown, thewinching system 32S includes a power source 30, a controller 21C, amotor 32M, and a winch 32 which includes the cable drum assembly orspool 32 d. A desired amount of cable 33 is wrapped onto the cable drumassembly. An example of a suitable cable is an eight conductorelectromechanical cable from Hydrolab, Inc. of Austin, Tex. The motor32M can be configured so as to be suitably powered by a power source 30.In certain embodiments, the motor 32M can operate based on powersupplied by one or more batteries having a service life of at leastabout 30 days when sampled at the desired sampling interval(s) notedabove. An example of a suitable motor is the Dayton 12V electric motor,which has a 0.45 rpm rating, and associated gearhead from GraingerIndustrial Supply of Raleigh, N.C., as part no. 4Z832.

[0067] In certain embodiments, the power source 30 is low voltage DCpower source having a voltage of about 24V or less. In certainembodiments, a single 12V marine battery will suffice. An example of asuitable battery is a general purpose, deep cycle marine battery fromBoaters World in Raleigh, N.C. The cable assembly drum 32 d can beconfigured with a sufficient width and depth to hold the desired lengthof cable. The drum 32 d can be fabricated from a corrosion resistantmaterial having sufficient material strength to hold the cable 33. Incertain embodiments, the drum 32 d can be made from readily availableand inexpensive sheet PVC (polyvinylchloride) plastic and schedule 40plastic or elastomeric PVC pipe. The diameter of the spool 32 d issufficient to provide an adequate bending radius for theelectromechanical cable wrapped thereon. In certain embodiments, thespool diameter is about 3 inches or greater. The number of revolutionsper minute that the drum or spool 32 d operates at can be dependent uponthe choice of the drive motor, the related gearing, and the like, as isknown to those of skill in the art.

[0068] The controller 21C can be a central controller or a supplementalcontroller in communication with the main controller. The main orprimary controller can be located at a platform and/or at one or moreremote sites (whether a central facility or a primary platform station).The controller 21C can be a computer (such as a laptop or a pervasivewireless computer device) and/or a digital signal processor that is ableto receive wireless transmissions and obtain and transmit desired datafrom and to one or more remote sites. The controller 21C can include aCR10X datalogger from Campbell Scientific of Logan, Utah.

[0069]FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment of a winching system 32S. Asshown, in cutaway view (with the housing 50 partially removed), thewinching system (or at least the winch 32 and drum 32 d, spooled cable33, and motor 32M) is enclosed in a housing to protect the equipmentfrom the environment. The drum 32 d can be held suspended or mountedabove the platform or guide tube 40 (where used) by a bracket 50 b whichcan be attached to the floor or ceiling (or side walls) of the housing50. In other embodiments, the bracket 50 b can mount directly to theplatform itself.

[0070] As shown, the winching system 32S can include other componentsincluding a multi-conductor rotating connector 32RT such as an eightconductor Mercotac 830-SS E00 available from Mercotack, Inc. orCarlsbad, Calif., a torque limiter 32TL such as a Zero-max/Helland modelH-T.L.C., available from Small Parts, Inc. of Miami, Fla., a limitswitch 51 such as a Telemecanique limit switch (single pole, doublethrow, omnidirectional) part no. XCKP 106 available from GraingerIndustrial Supply, of Raleigh, N.C., and bearings 32B. The rotatingconnector 32RT may be configured as a relatively low cost connector withmercury contacts. The motor 32M may be operably associated with a 90degree gearbox as is known to those of skill in the art and other wiringand circuitry may be used to provide the communications and signalpath(s). For example, a solid-state relay (such as a Crydom D1D07 MOSFETsolid relay from Newark Electronics of Greensboro, N.C.) may bepositioned operably between the winch motor 32M and the datalogger orsignal processor (not shown). FIG. 5 is a screen printout of aneconomical winching system illustrative of that shown in FIG. 4.

[0071] The drum 32 d can be aligned with the line of cable 33 movementinto the water or can be laterally offset from the line of movement sothat the cable 33 travels through an angle before it turns andvertically travels in the water column. FIG. 2A illustrates that, incertain embodiments, the drum 32 d is spaced away from the vertical lineof travel and the cable 33 first travels out from the drum 32 d at anangle of about 30-60 degrees for a distance and then turns so that it isvertically oriented as it enters the water. FIG. 4 illustrates that thecable/winch 32 d is vertically aligned so that the cable 33 is releasedfrom the spool/drum 32 d in a substantially vertical line. The drum 32 dcan be positioned over and vertically aligned with the aperture in theplatform/guide tube.

[0072]FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration of the automated profilersystem 10 according to embodiments of the present invention. As shown,the system 10 includes a data acquisition computer 21 and a datalogger121. The computer 21 and datalogger 121 are in communication via atransmission device 21T. The datalogger 121 may be a module on thecomputer 21, or a separate computer, controller, or signal processor.The computer 21 can be configured to allow user interface for manualsystem control (via input delivered on site or from a remote site) andincludes the automated program operations and data storage. Thedatalogger 121 provides temporary data storage and winch and/or sensorcontrol. The computer 21 and datalogger 121 can control the operation ofthe winch 32 and probe 35 via a relay system 132. The measurement dataor signals from the probe 35 can be directed to the datalogger 121. Thedatalogger 121 may also operate and receive data from auxiliary sensors150 which can include a fish finder (sonar) sensor 151, meteorologicalsensors 152, and an ADCP (Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler) sensor.

[0073] In certain embodiments, the system 10 can include othercommunication components such as a cell phone, a voice synthesizerand/or modem, such as a COM300 voice synthesizer and modem from CampbellScientific of Logan, Utah.

[0074]FIG. 9 illustrates an example of a relay circuit or system 132(FIG. 8) used to control the winding and unwinding of the winch or coil32. As shown, the relay circuit 132 includes datalogger controls 132Dthat communicate with a CRYDOM load control component 132C₁, and a coilOMRON output component 132C₂. The relay system 132 can also include alimit switch 51, battery 30, and the motor 30M. The CRYDOM relay isavailable from Crydom Corporation, located in San Diego, Calif. TheOMRON coil output component is available from Omron Electronics, LLC,located in Schaumburg, Ill.

[0075] Examples of operations that can be used to obtain dynamic waterprofile data are shown in FIGS. 10 and 11. FIG. 10 illustrates anexample of operations that may be carried out in a logic control dataloop according to certain embodiments of the present invention. At adesignated or desired time, the profile is initiated (block 160) and theprobe depth is determined (block 162). The winch 10 is powered and run(block 164). The data is collected and logged along with the upcast time(block 166). The depth is evaluated (block 168). A decision box (block170) evaluates whether the depth is off by more than a desired amountfrom a predicted value. If the depth is within the predeterminedtolerance (yes, block 172), the winch movement is reversed and theupcast time is totalized (block 180). The probe is then winched to thebottom (block 181).

[0076] If the depth varies beyond the predetermined amount (no, block173) an error identification routine (self-diagnostic program) may beperformed to identify whether there is an error in the procedures orcollection routine (block 175). If an error is identified, certainoperations repeated (shown as blocks 164, 166, 168, and 170).

[0077] Referring to FIG. 11, in certain embodiments, operations includeinitializing a rest state (block 200). The time is obtained (block 202)and it is determined whether the time is at a specified interval (block203). If the time is not at a specified interval, the operationalsequence returns to the initialized rest state (block 200). If the timeis at a specified interval then the profile sequence is initiated (block205). The desired profile method is determined from the default oraltered (updated) instructions (block 207) to proceed either in a runmode which samples pausing the probe so that the probe will dwell atcertain depths (block 210) or to sample in motion (block 310). Thesample in motion method may selectively employ slower descent or ascenttimes during the profiling period or can be run at a constant rate.

[0078] For the stop for sample operational sequence (block 210), theprobe can be initialized (block 215), and the winch set to wind in adesired direction. As shown, the winch is set to wind up (block 218) toraise the probe. This is because, in certain embodiments, the probestart position can be at the bottom of the water column as noted above.In other embodiments, the sequence for the probe movement and/orsampling measurements for both the motion and stop sample methods canstart from a winch direction down to take measurements as the probedescends.

[0079] The probe can obtain the measurements and the data or probevalues can be logged or stored (block 220). The timer can be started(block 222). At certain depth intervals, depth measurements are obtainedand it is determined as to whether the depth is less than about 0.1 m(block 225). If yes, then the winch is powered for a desired time, shownas about 30 seconds (block 227) and the winch is stopped (block 229) andthe elapsed time calculated (block 230). The operation determineswhether the elapsed time is greater than a predetermined set value(block 232). If not, then the probe is paused so that it dwells at thatdepth for a desired time (shown as about 90 seconds) (block 233) only tolog the measured values (block 220), and the sequence is repeated for anincremental depth. If the depth was determined to be less than about 0.1m, then the winch can be redirected to a down direction (block 240) andthe winch powered for an elapsed time (block 241) so that the probetravels to the desired storage location. The profile method can beterminated (block 243). If the elapsed time is greater than the set time(block 232) during the upward sequence, a safety initiate error callbackoperation can be run (block 245).

[0080] The “sample in motion” method (block 310) can include similaroperations. That is, the probe can be initialized (block 315), and thewinch set in an upward direction (block 318). The probe values can bestored or logged (block 320) and the timer started (block 322). Theprobe depth can be measured to assess whether it is approaching thesurface (shown as determining whether the depth is less than about 0.1m) (block 325). If the answer is yes, the winch is set to move in thedownward direction (block 240), the power to the winch is activated foran elapsed desired time (block 241) to position the probe at itsinactive location, and the profile sampling is terminated (block 243).

[0081] In certain embodiments, those operations associated with blocks325, 225, can be performed such that the datalogger automaticallycommunicates with a serial data interface (such as a SDI-12 or serialdata interface 1200 baud as described at http: sdi-12.org) which isoperably associated with the probe to record the probe/SDI-12 depth.This depth value can be used as an input into the datalogger program forthe conditional yes/no decision. Motor control (i.e., powering of thewinch) can be performed via the execution of software commands which canbe made dependent upon the conditional response. For example, if thesensor depth is greater than 0.1 m, then the motor can continue in anupcast mode. If the depth is less than about 0.1 m, then the motor canbe reversed and the sensor moved to the bottom of the water column, asdesired. The particular decision depth can be adjusted to be less (ormore) than the 0.1 m depending on the location of the depth sensorrelative to the probe sensors and/or depending on whether an adjustablesurface level measurement is desired. For example, but not limited to,the directional decision depth may be defined as between about 0.05m-0.2 m.

[0082] Thus, if the probe depth is greater than about 0.1 m, then thewinch is powered for a desired time (shown as 30 seconds)(block 327) andthe elapsed time is calculated (block 330). The elapsed time isevaluated to determine whether it is above a set value (block 332). Ifthe elapsed time is greater than a set value, then the error callbacksequence is initiated (block 245). If the elapsed time is less than theset time, the probe values are logged and the sequence run to repeat theoperations (blocks 320, 322, 325, 327, and 330).

[0083] In addition, the system can be configured to detect, alert, andcorrect certain operational features. For example, in certainembodiments, the system can be programmed to self-correct or reset theprobe depth or location when sensors or switches (such as limitswitches) indicate it is not at a proper level. The improper depth mayoccur because the line is caught or the probe is hung up or wedgedagainst the side of the guide. In other embodiments, the system caninclude program code and sensors that activate remote alarms whencertain predetermined conditions are identified, allowing a monitoringstation to undertake to remedy the detected condition in a manner thatreduces any corrupted data that may be attributed to the predeterminedconditions. Examples of such predetermined conditions include, irregularwater conditions which depart by more than a predicted limit from anorm, high winds, high seas, low power, the inability to winch up ordown, and the like.

[0084] In certain embodiments, the datalogger can initiate a telephonecall when selected parameters are over or under the desired or apredetermined range. The selected parameters can include at least oneof: DO (dissolved oxygen), profiler depth, detected battery upcast looperror in the handling of the probe (typically for when or if theprofiler stalls for any reason on the upcast, the program exits thelogic loop and returns the probe to the bottom location. The system canalso identify if the probe is not returned to a proper desired restingdepth. The winch can be powered again to attempt to lower the probefurther. The depth error features can be linked to a depth callbackalarm. In other embodiments, a sensor can be used to obtain a vibratingwire depth reading for an optional water level sensor.

[0085] In other embodiments, the average DO is calculated and a daily(or other desired report or collection interval) can be generated, fromdesired input locations and by geographic locations that can beidentified by geographic coordinates or other site identifiers. Ofcourse, other data evaluations of the DO data can be used such as rangedata (highs and/or lows or median values and the like). The geographiccoordinates or site identifiers can be included in the datatransmissions facilitating input in a system including a plurality ofdifferent collection sites for easier analysis in a GIS system.

[0086] In certain embodiments, the automated system can be used tomonitor water used to raise captive or farm-grown fishes (fisheries)(not shown). For example, the automated system 10 can be operablyassociated with a containment bed that can enclose a plurality of fishesheld captured therein in a body of water. The containment bed can beconfigured to be able to be moved from one desired location to another.The automated system 10 can be programmed to monitor the conditionsproximate the containment beds and then to increase or decrease thedepth at which the containment beds are located automatically over adesired period in order to take advantage of improved conditions(suitable oxygenation) or to avoid undesirable conditions (increasednumbers of potential toxins). Similarly, the automated systems can beconfigured to identify the presence of unsuitable swimming conditionsand/or to monitor bodies of water for spills, leaks, chemicals, toxins,or other parameters to note and/or track the consequences or reactionsof the water to the introduction of substances therein which mayindicate a potential environmental impact. In addition, the water orliquid profile data can be used to assess when it may be desirable tointroduce (or reduce or stop the introduction of) certain additives,treatments, or substances to the water to counteract unfavorabledetected conditions (such as increased blue green algae). In otherembodiments, the profiler 10 can be used to track water conditions inshipping lanes in the ocean, as well as water columns adjacent oilrigsand platforms.

[0087] As will be appreciated by one of skill in the art, the presentinvention may be embodied as an apparatus, a method, data or signalprocessing system, or computer program product. Accordingly, the presentinvention may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, anentirely software embodiment, or an embodiment combining software andhardware aspects. Furthermore, certain embodiments of the presentinvention may take the form of a computer program product on acomputer-usable storage medium having computer-usable program code meansembodied in the medium. Any suitable computer readable medium may beutilized including hard disks, CD-ROMs, optical storage devices, ormagnetic storage devices.

[0088] The computer-usable or computer-readable medium may be, forexample but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical,electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, device,or propagation medium. More specific examples (a nonexhaustive list) ofthe computer-readable medium would include the following: an electricalconnection having one or more wires, a portable computer diskette, arandom access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasableprogrammable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), an optical fiber,and a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM). Note that thecomputer-usable or computer-readable medium could even be paper oranother suitable medium upon which the program is printed, as theprogram can be electronically captured, via, for instance, opticalscanning of the paper or other medium, then compiled, interpreted orotherwise processed in a suitable manner if necessary, and then storedin a computer memory.

[0089] Computer program code for carrying out operations of the presentinvention may be written in an object oriented programming language suchas BASIC, Java®, Labview, Smalltalk or C++. However, the computerprogram code for carrying out operations of the present invention mayalso be written in conventional procedural programming languages, suchas the “C” programming language or even assembly language. The programcode may execute entirely on the user's (monitoring site) computer,partly on the user's computer as a stand-alone software package, partlyon the user's computer and partly on a remote computer or entirely onthe remote computer. In the latter scenario, the remote computer may beconnected to the user's computer through wireless means and/or via alocal area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or the connectionmay be made to an external computer (for example, through the Internetusing an Internet Service Provider).

[0090] The flowcharts and block diagrams of certain of the figuresherein illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation ofpossible implementations of water profiling systems and/or probeoperation and storage systems according to the present invention. Inthis regard, each block in the flow charts or block diagrams representsa module, segment, operation, or portion of code, which comprises one ormore executable instructions for implementing the specified logicalfunction(s). It should also be noted that in some alternativeimplementations, the functions noted in the blocks may occur out of theorder noted in the figures. For example, two blocks shown in successionmay in fact be executed substantially concurrently or the blocks maysometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon thefunctionality involved.

[0091] The present invention will be explained further by thenon-limiting examples described below.

EXAMPLES

[0092] FIGS. 12A-12C are graphs of dynamic water profile dataillustrating a water column response to large magnitude wind events ofwater columns positioned to be exposed to cross-estuary winds, accordingto embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 12A illustrates the windconditions (direction and speed) over a selected time period. FIG. 12Billustrates a gray scale of gradient of salinity (PSU) at a first sitelocated at the north shore of Kennel Beach over a corresponding timeperiod (shown in Jullan Day). The side legend defines the levels ofsalinity corresponding to the gray scale shown. FIG. 12C illustratessimilar data for a second site located at the south shore of CarolinaPines. Although shown in gray scale, color gradient graphs can also beused to illustrate the spatial distribution of the measured parameter.As shown, large magnitude wind events promotes a well-mixed water columnand large fluctuations in water level (shown by the bottom of the graphsfrom more than −3.5 m to about −2.0 m). The “0” level shown is for thebottom of the water column shown as the top of the graph. The graphsillustrate that the water profiler is able to provide resolution ofsubtle salinity differences throughout the water column.

[0093] FIGS. 13A-13C are graphs corresponding to the graphs of FIGS.12A-12C, with the wind conditions shown in FIG. 13A is the same as forthat in FIG. 12A. In these figures, the sensor detects or measures thepresence of detected DO in the water column, according to embodiments ofthe present invention. FIG. 13B illustrates the gradient measured at thenorth shore of Kennel Beach and FIG. 13C illustrates measurements takenat the south shore at Carolina Pines. In each case, the DO distributionin the water column indicates that there is an upwelling of low DOwater.

[0094] FIGS. 14A-14C are graphs similar to those of FIG. 12 but for adifferent time period where there is a northerly wind or southerly wind(depending on the location of the automated system). FIGS. 14B and 14Care graphs of salinity measured in the water column at the north shoreof Kennel Beach and the south shore of Carolina Pines, respectively.FIG. 14B illustrates an upwelling of high salinity water with northerlywinds while FIG. 14C illustrates an upwelling of high salinity waterwith southerly winds.

[0095] FIGS. 15A-15C correspond to FIGS. 14A-14C but illustrate thedetected DO level in the water column. The wind conditions shown in FIG.15A are the same as those shown in FIG. 14A. FIG. 15B illustrates themeasurement results taken at the north shore of Kennel Beach and FIG.15C illustrates the measurement results taken at the south shore ofCarolina Pines. In each case there is an upwelling of low DO waterresulting from a northerly wind (FIG. 15B) or a southerly wind (FIG.15C).

[0096]FIG. 16 is a map of locations proposed for use in a multi-siteautomated water profiler system. An automated water profiling system 10can be positioned in a plurality of different sampling sites in arelated body of water. The data from each of the sites can be analyzedfor correlations and/or the spatial distribution of the water conditionsat the sites based on the dynamic water profiles obtained. The sites canbe spaced apart (some may be located adjacent opposing banks) in aflowing (navigable) body of water to monitor regional correlations inwater conditions such as in a waterway proximate an ocean inlet.

[0097] The number of dedicated monitored sites can be unlimited, but mayinclude 3-10, or more. As shown, the sites 100-114 extend from upstreamto downstream locations in a flowable body of water (the Neuse River isshown herein). Hydrological monitored sites (in FIG. 16) are representedby circles. Selected sites, such as, but not limited to, locations 100,104, can include both metrological and hydrological measurement sensorswhile the other sites can be modified to with a less number of sensorsto automatically detect and generate the hydrological withoutmetrological data. The system may also include a number of nutrientmonitoring sites 200 that are configured to monitor for additionalparameters in the water over standard hydrological monitoring sites,these sites are illustrated by triangles in FIG. 16. For example, in themonitoring network shown in FIG. 16, at Mills Branch, with ahydrological monitoring station 100, there are three nutrient monitoringstations 200 positioned to substantially span the width of the waterwayat this region, MB1, MB2, MB3. Black Beacon Point has three nutrientmonitoring stations 200, BB1, BB2, BB3, and no hydrological station.

[0098] Each of the sites can be assigned an electronic identifier oridentified by a GPS system that allows a central monitoring station tomonitor, transmit and receive data from each of the sites. Also shown inFIG. 16 are sites 103 (Carolina Pines) and 104 (Kennel Beach) from whichthe data of FIGS. 12-14 were gathered.

[0099] Advantageously, the cost-effective water profiler systems allowedby the present system can allow increased locations to be numbered(5-10, or even 20 times as many) for a price relatively equal to that ofone of the conventional automated systems. By monitoring at increasednumbers of locations, additional potentially valuable scientificinformation can be obtained about the dynamic conditions along a body ofwater and the influence of environment and other factors on the watercondition as the water moves from one location to another.

[0100]FIG. 17 is a schematic illustration of the operation of thetransmission of data for a water profiler monitoring system that cantrack, over time, which can be transmitted to a remote computer station21R and then uploaded and visually presented on a computer network 21Gaccording to embodiments of the present invention. For this example, andthe other embodiments discussed herein, the computer network can be aregional network, a defined computer network, or a global computernetwork such as the world wide web. The upload can update at desiredintervals the measurement data in a visually easy to read format. Theupdate can be performed such that the update is relayed to the desiredcomputer network, such as the global computer network in substantiallyreal time (or hourly, daily, or other desired interval).

[0101]FIGS. 18A and 18B illustrate an annual trend analysis summary thatcan be generated according to certain embodiments of the presentinvention. FIG. 18A is a graph of depth versus DO values and day andFIG. 18B is a graph of salinity over the four seasons, with winter andsummer shown (each can be shown in graduated color or gray scale, withthe values corresponding to the legend on the right side of thefigures). FIG. 19 is an example of a spatial plot of DO along anetworked region of sites for Jun. 9, 2001, with areas less than 2.5mg/L being associated with good predictors of a fish kill that occurredon Jun. 13, 2001.

[0102] The foregoing is illustrative of the present invention and is notto be construed as limiting thereof. Although a few exemplaryembodiments of this invention have been described, those skilled in theart will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible in theexemplary embodiments without materially departing from the novelteachings and advantages of this invention. Accordingly, all suchmodifications are intended to be included within the scope of thisinvention as defined in the claims. Therefore, it is to be understoodthat the foregoing is illustrative of the present invention and is notto be construed as limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, andthat modifications to the disclosed embodiments, as well as otherembodiments, are intended to be included within the scope of theappended claims. The invention is defined by the following claims, withequivalents of the claims to be included therein.

That which is claimed is:
 1. A method for dynamically monitoring atleast one parameter of interest in a liquid environment using ahydrological probe which is attached to a cable mounted on a spool of awinching system, comprising: controllably unwinding a quantity of cableto lower a hydrological probe into a liquid environment at a series ofincreasing incremental distances away from the surface of the liquid;obtaining first data measurements for at least one selected parameter ofinterest in the liquid environment at the selected distances;subsequently controllably unwinding a quantity of cable to lower ahydrological probe into the liquid environment at the series ofincreasing incremental distances away from the surface of the liquid;obtaining second data measurements for the at least one selectedparameter of interest in the liquid environment at the selecteddistances after the first data measurements are obtained; and monitoringthe liquid environment to generate a time-dependent liquid profile ofthe at least one parameter of interest based on the first and seconddata measurements.
 2. A method according to claim 1, wherein thewinching system is powered by a low voltage power source.
 3. A methodaccording to claim 1, wherein said second obtaining step is initiated atbetween about 1-12 hours from said first obtaining step.
 4. A methodaccording to claim 1, wherein said first and second obtaining steps arerepeated a plurality of times at spaced intervals over a 24 hour period.5. A method according to claim 1, wherein said liquid environment is abody of water, and wherein said first and second obtaining steps areautomatically carried out so as to generate data measurements at a userdefined interval or intervals.
 6. A method according to claim 5, whereinthe winching system is powered by a battery which has a useful servicelife of at least 30 days when said first and second obtaining steps areperformed so as to obtain at least about 4 measurements of the watercolumn during a 24 hour period.
 7. A method according to claim 6,wherein the intervals at which the data measurements are obtained aredecreased or increased based on an in situ measurement of localconditions.
 8. A method according to claim 6, wherein said first andsecond obtaining steps are automatically repeated so as to generateupdated dynamic water profiles about every three hours for at least 1week to 1 month.
 9. A method according to claim 1, further comprisingthe step of relaying the data to a remote site for monitoring.
 10. Amethod according to claim 9, further comprising the step of posting thefirst and second measurement data as a gradient graphic display ofmeasured parameters over a suitable time period to a global computernetwork site proximate in time to the data acquisition.
 11. A methodaccording to claim 1, wherein the liquid environment is a waterenvironment, and wherein said first and second obtaining steps areperformed so that the measurements are taken at depths spaced at nogreater than about every 1.0 m from the bottom of the water column tothe surface of the water column.
 12. A method according to claim 2,wherein said lowering step is carried out such that the hydrologicalprobe is lowered for a first user defined interval, pauses to take ameasurement at a the first lowered depth, continues for about a seconduser defined interval to a second lowered depth, pauses to take ameasurement at the second lowered depth, continues for about third userset interval to a third lowered depth, and then pauses to take ameasurement at the third lowered depth.
 13. A method according to claim1, wherein said first and second obtaining steps include taking areading at the surface of the liquid in variable height liquidenvironments.
 14. A method according to claim 1, wherein the step oflowering is carried out to cause the controllably winch to wind andunwind about 30-80 feet of cable at a rate of about 0.2 m/minute.
 15. Amethod according to claim 1, further comprising raising the hydrologicalprobe from a submerged position prior to initiation of said first andsecond obtaining steps.
 16. A method according to claim 1, wherein saidfirst obtaining step has a cycle time of less than about 40-90 minutesfrom initiation of the first measurement at the first depth to the lastmeasurement at the last measurement depth.
 17. A method according toclaim 1, wherein said liquid environment is a water environment, andwherein said first obtaining step is carried out such that a pluralityof measurements are taken at a plurality of depths in a water column ofless than about 25 m during an elapsed time of about 20-40 minutes orless.
 18. A method according to claim 1, further comprising the step ofstoring the hydroglogical probe is held immersed in the liquidenvironment at a level sufficient to inhibit marine fouling after eachof the first and second obtaining steps.
 19. A method according to claim1, further comprising directing the hydrological probe into a guide tubedisposed substantially vertically in the liquid environment at a seriesof increasing incremental distances away from the surface of the liquidso that the hydrological probe travels therein during the step oflowering.
 20. A method according to claim 19, wherein the liquidenvironment is water and wherein the guide tube includes a plurality ofapertures arranged and configured to allow liquid to enter therein ateach of the desired measurement depths so that water representative ofthe water at the incremental measurement depths can be analyzed.
 21. Amethod according to claim 1, wherein said first and second obtainingsteps are carried out substantially concurrently at at least threedifferent sites in different regions of a related body of water bydifferent hydrological probes, said method further comprising: assigninglocation identifiers to the first, second, and third hydrological probesites; relaying information from the first second and third sites to acentral site; and analyzing the spatial distribution of the waterconditions at the first, second, and third sites based on the dynamicwater profiles obtained at the first, second, and third sites.
 22. Amethod according to claim 21, wherein said first, second, and thirdsites are spaced apart in a flowing body of water to monitor regionalcorrelations in water conditions at a waterway proximate an ocean inlet.23. A method according to claim 21, further comprising monitoringmeteorological conditions at at least one of the hydrological probesites concurrently with said first and second obtaining steps.
 24. Amethod according to claim 1, wherein the liquid environment compriseswater, and wherein the incremental distances are incremental depths in awater column, and wherein the data measurements of said first and secondobtaining steps are obtained at about every 0.5 m from the bottom of thewater column to the water level surface.
 25. A method according to claim1, wherein the liquid environment comprises water, and wherein theincremental distances are incremental depths in a water column, andwherein the hydrological probe is held inside a guide tube as it travelsup and down the water column.
 26. A method according to claim 25,wherein the guide tube is substantially cylindrical and includes aplurality of axially spaced apart, axially elongated slots disposedabout the perimeter of the guide tube at a plurality of positions alongthe length of the guide tube, the slots being configured in size andarranged in location about the length of the guide tube to allow waterrepresentative of the water at the incremental measurement depths toenter therein.
 27. A method according to claim 26, wherein said guidetube is coated with an anti-fouling marine coating.
 28. A methodaccording to claim 1, further comprising measuring the water level ofthe surface of the water proximate in time to said first and secondobtaining steps.
 29. A method for dynamically monitoring at least oneparameter of interest in a liquid environment using a hydrological probewhich is attached to cable configured to be wrapped around a spool of awinching system comprising: controllably winding a quantity of cablefrom the winching system to raise a hydrological probe in a liquidenvironment at a series of increasing incremental distances above thebottom of the liquid; obtaining first data measurements for at least oneselected parameter of interest in the liquid environment at the selecteddistances; repeating said winding step and then obtaining second datameasurements for the at least one selected parameter of interest in theliquid environment at the selected distances after the first datameasurements are obtained; and monitoring the liquid environment todefine a time-dependent liquid profile of the at least one parameter ofinterest based on the first and second data measurements.
 30. A methodaccording to claim 29, wherein the winching system is powered by a lowvoltage power source.
 31. A method according to claim 29, wherein saidsecond obtaining step is initiated at between about 1-12 hours from saidfirst obtaining step.
 32. A method according to claim 29, wherein saidfirst and second obtaining steps are repeated a plurality of times atspaced intervals over a 24 hour period.
 33. A method according to claim29, wherein said liquid environment is a body of water, and wherein saidfirst and second obtaining steps are automatically carried out so as togenerate data measurements at about 3 hour intervals.
 34. A methodaccording to claim 33, wherein the winching system is powered by abattery which has a useful service life of at least 30 days when saidfirst and second obtaining steps are performed so as to obtain at leastabout 4 measurements of the water column during a 24 hour period.
 35. Amethod according to claim 34, wherein the intervals at which the datameasurements are obtained are decreased or increased based on an in situmeasurement of local conditions.
 36. A method according to claim 34,wherein said first and second obtaining steps are automatically repeatedso as to generate updated dynamic water profiles about every three hoursfor at least 1 week to 1 month.
 37. A method according to claim 29,further comprising the step of relaying the data to a remote site formonitoring.
 38. A method according to claim 37, further comprising thestep of posting the data as a gradient graph display of measuredparameters over a suitable time period to a global computer network siteproximate in time to the data acquisition.
 39. A method according toclaim 29, wherein the liquid environment is a water environment, andwherein said first and second obtaining steps are performed so that themeasurements are taken at depths spaced at no greater than about every1.0 m from the bottom of the water column to the surface of the watercolumn.
 40. A method according to claim 30, wherein said raising step isautomatically carried out such that the hydrological probe takes a firstmeasurement and then is raised for a user defined interval of at leastabout 30 seconds to a second depth, pauses to take a measurement at asecond depth, continues up for about another user defined interval of atleast about 30 seconds to a third depth, pauses to take a measurement atthe third depth, continues up for about another user defined interval ofat least about 30 seconds to a fourth depth, and pauses to take ameasurement at the fourth depth.
 41. A method according to claim 29,wherein said obtaining steps include taking a reading at the surface ofthe liquid in variable height liquid environments.
 42. A methodaccording to claim 29, further comprising lowering the probe to asubsurface storage position adjacent the bottom of the liquidenvironment being analyzed during periods of inactivity, and wherein thesteps of raising and lowering are carried out to wind and unwind about30-80 feet of cable.
 43. A method according to claim 29, wherein saidfirst obtaining step has a cycle time of less than about 40-90 minutesfrom initiation of the first measurement at the first depth to the lastmeasurement at the last measurement depth.
 44. A method according toclaim 29, wherein said liquid environment is a water environment, andwherein said first obtaining step is carried out such that a pluralityof measurements are taken at a plurality of depths in a water column ofless than about 25 m during an elapsed time of about 20-40 minutes orless.
 45. A method according to claim 29, wherein the liquid environmentis a water environment, and wherein the method further comprises storingthe hydrological probe after said first and second obtaining steps whennot in use such that it is held immersed in the liquid environment at alevel sufficient to inhibit marine fouling.
 46. A method according toclaim 29, further comprising directing the hydrological probe into aguide tube disposed substantially vertically in the liquid environmentat a series of increasing incremental distances away from the surface ofthe liquid so that the hydrological probe travels therein during thestep of lowering.
 47. A method according to claim 46, wherein the liquidenvironment is water and wherein the guide tube includes a plurality ofapertures arranged and configured to allow liquid to enter therein ateach of the desired measurement depths so that water representative ofthe water at the incremental measurement depths can be analyzed.
 48. Amethod according to claim 29, wherein the liquid environment is aflowing body of water, and wherein said first and second obtaining stepsare carried out substantially concurrently at at least three differentsites in different regions of a related body of water by differenthydrological probes, said method further comprising: assigning locationidentifiers to the first, second, and third hydrological probe sites;relaying information from the first second and third sites to a centralsite; and analyzing the spatial distribution of the water conditions atthe first, second, and third sites based on the dynamic water profilesobtained at the first, second, and third sites.
 49. A method accordingto claim 48, wherein said first, second, and third sites are spacedapart in a flowing body of water to monitor regional correlations inwater conditions at a waterway proximate an ocean inlet.
 50. A methodaccording to claim 48, further comprising monitoring meteorologicalconditions at at least one of the hydrological probe sites concurrentlywith said first and second obtaining steps.
 51. A method according toclaim 29, wherein the liquid environment comprises a water column, andwherein the incremental distances are incremental depths in a watercolumn, and wherein the data measurements of said first and secondobtaining steps comprise dwelling at a measurement depth at about every0.5 m from the bottom of the water column to the water level surface.52. A method according to claim 51, further comprising directing thehydrological probe to travel up and down the water column inside a guidetube.
 53. A method according to claim 52, wherein said guide tube issubstantially cylindrical and includes a plurality of axially spacedapart, axially elongated slots disposed about the perimeter of the guidetube at a plurality of positions along the length of the guide tube, theslots being configured in size and arranged in location about the lengthof the guide tube to allow water representative of the water at theincremental measurement depths to enter therein.
 54. A method accordingto claim 53, wherein said guide tube is coated with an anti-foulingmarine coating.
 55. A method according to claim 29, further comprisingmeasuring the water level of the surface of the water column proximatein time to said first and second obtaining steps.
 56. A method accordingto claim 29, further comprising generating an alert to a site remotefrom the monitoring site when predetermined conditions are detected asabnormal.
 57. A method according to claim 29, further comprising postingthe liquid profile on a global computer network in substantiallyreal-time from the collection of the first and second data measurements.58. A method according to claim 29, wherein the method is carried out ata plurality of different sites, each having a geographic identifierassociated therewith, said method further transmitting the dataassociated with the liquid profiles from the different sites to acentral remote collection site.
 59. A method according to claim 29,further comprising automatically telephoning a predetermined telephonenumber upon the detection of the presence of a monitored abnormalcondition.
 60. A method according to claim 29, further comprisingautomatically monitoring the winding and obtaining steps forpredetermined abnormal conditions including conditions associated withthe depth or movement of the hydraulic probe, and automaticallyrepeating the winding and obtaining steps when the monitored conditionsindicate the presence of an abnormal winding or depth condition.
 61. Amethod according to claim 29, further comprising transmitting dataassociated with the liquid profile to a remote monitoring site, whereinthe transmitting step transmits geographic identifier data with theliquid profile data.
 62. A method for enhancing the life of ahydrological probe, comprising: positioning a hydrological probe in abody of water; measuring at least one parameter of interest of the waterat a plurality of depths of the body of water over time with thehydrological probe; and storing the probe such that it is held immersedin the body of water at a subsurface depth after the measuring step. 63.A method according to claim 62, wherein the subsurface depth is at adepth adjacent the bottom of the body of water.
 64. A method accordingto claim 62, wherein the body of water is salt or brackish water.
 65. Amethod according to claim 62, wherein the body of water is fresh water.66. A method according to claim 62, wherein the hydrological probe is amulti-sensor probe which is configured to measure a plurality ofparameters of interest comprising a plurality of pH, oxygenation,chlorophyll, salinity, DO, and temperature.
 67. A method according toclaim 62, wherein said method provides a marine use life of at leastabout 6-9 days.
 68. A kit for an automated water profiler system,comprising: a winching system having a drum with a length of multiconductor cable, the mutli-conductor cable adapted to engage with ahydrological mutli-sensor probe; a low voltage power source configuredto be in electrical communication with said winching system when inposition during operation; an electric motor configured to be operablyassociated with the power source and the winching system duringoperation; and means for selectively powering the motor at desiredintervals to activate the winching system so as to automatically obtaina series of data measurements from the probe at a plurality of depths ina water column during operation.
 69. A kit according to claim 68,further comprising a controller configured to be in communication withthe power source, the electric motor, and the winching system duringoperation, and further comprising means for causing the probe to bestored in a submerged location adjacent the bottom of the water column.70. A kit according to claim 69, further comprising a guide tubeconfigured to be disposed in the water to define a vertical travel pathfor the probe, said guide tube being configured and sized to receive theprobe therein.
 71. A kit according to claim 70, wherein said guide tubecomprises a plurality of apertures formed at different locations alongthe length of the tube, said apertures sized and configured to allowwater therein.
 72. An automated water profiler system, comprising: acontroller; a winching system having a drum with a length of multiconductor cable, the multi-conductor cable adapted to engage with ahydrological multi-sensor probe; a power source configured to be inelectrical communication with said winching system; an electric motorconfigured to be operably associated with the power source and thewinching system; and means for selectively powering the motor at desiredintervals to activate the winching system so as to automatically obtaina series of data measurements from the probe at a plurality of depths ina water column, wherein said system is configured to controllably windand unwind the cable at desired time intervals and to cause the probe tobe held submerged during periods of inactivity.
 73. An automated systemaccording to claim 72, wherein the system is configured to raise orlower the winch at a rate of between about 0.2-5 meters/min.
 74. Anautomated system according to claim 72, further comprising a guide tubeconfigured to be disposed in the water to define a vertical travel pathfor the probe, said guide tube being configured and sized to receive theprobe therein.
 75. An automated system according to claim 74, whereinsaid guide tube comprises a plurality of apertures formed at differentlocations along the length of the tube, said apertures sized andconfigured to allow water therein.
 76. An automated system according toclaim 75, wherein the system further comprises a solar energy source incommunication with the power source, and wherein the power sourcecomprises a 12V battery that is configured to be recharged via solarenergy.
 77. An automated water profiler system for monitoring a body ofliquid, comprising: a winching system having a drum wound with a lengthof cable, the cable adapted to engage with a hydrological multi-sensorprobe; a power source configured to be in electrical communication withsaid winching system; an electric motor configured to be operablyassociated with the power source and the winching system; a controllerin communication with a relay circuit for selectively controllablypowering the motor at desired intervals to activate the winching systemso as to automatically obtain a series of data measurements from theprobe at a plurality of depths in a liquid column, wherein said systemis configured to controllably wind and unwind the cable at desired timeintervals to obtain time-dependent data of at least one selected liquidparameter; and a wireless communication means operably associated withsaid controller for receiving commands from a remote monitoring site anddynamically transmitting data measurements thereto in substantiallyreal-time.
 78. A system according to claim 77, further comprisingsensors operably associated with said wireless communication means forobtaining local nutrient and/or meteorological data.
 79. A systemaccording to claim 77, wherein the system includes computer program codeto automatically operate the winching system to cause the probe to beheld submerged during periods of inactivity.
 80. A system according toclaim 77, wherein the power source is a 12V battery.
 81. A systemaccording to claim 80, wherein the system is configured as a compactassembly that is mountable to a structure located in a body of liquid,and wherein, in use, the battery is externally accessible.
 82. A systemaccording to claim 81, wherein the compact assembly includes a housingthat encases the system electronics and a winching system
 83. A networkof automated water profiler system for monitoring a body of water,comprising: a plurality of distributed automated water profilers, eachcomprising: a winching system having a drum wound with a length ofcable, the cable adapted to engage with a hydrological multi-sensorprobe; a power source configured to be in electrical communication withsaid winching system; an electric motor configured to be operablyassociated with the power source and the winching system; a controllerin communication with a relay circuit for selectively controllablypowering the motor at desired intervals to activate the winching systemso as to automatically obtain a series of data measurements from theprobe at a plurality of depths in a liquid column, wherein said systemis configured to controllably wind and unwind the cable at desired timeintervals to obtain time-dependent data of at least one selected liquidparameter; and a wireless communication means operably associated withsaid controller for receiving commands and dynamically transmitting datameasurements thereto in substantially real-time; and at least one remotedata acquisition site configured to generate and transmit commands to,and receive data from, each of the automated water profilers, whereinthe remote data acquisition site comprises a controller that evaluatesthe data from each of the distributed automated water profilers andgenerates trend analysis data of selected hydrological parameters overtime.
 84. A system according to claim 83, wherein the monitoring sitesare configured to transmit geographic identifier data with themeasurement data.